Using Multiple Imputation to Integrate and Disseminate Confidential Microdata

In data integration contexts, two statistical agencies seek to merge their separate databases into one file. The agencies also may seek to disseminate data to the public based on the integrated file. These goals may be complicated by the agencies' need to protect the confidentiality of database subjects, which could be at risk during the integration or dissemination stage. This article proposes several approaches based on multiple imputation for disclosure limitation, usually called synthetic data, that could be used to facilitate data integration and dissemination while protecting data confidentiality. It reviews existing methods for obtaining inferences from synthetic data and points out where new methods are needed to implement the data integration proposals. Copyright (c) 2009 The Author. Journal compilation (c) 2009 International Statistical Institute.